There's a lot of information out there about the property market at the moment, with more rumoured to come in the Autumn budget, but what are the people who are truly in the know seeing on the ground? Taking a nationwide view, Chase Buchanan's MD, Michael Peacock, shares his property market insights for Autumn 2025.
We often hear people talking in sweeping statements when it comes to property trends. However, a variety of external pressures such as changes in interest rates and policy alterations (notably Stamp Duty Land Tax threshold adjustments ending in the spring and the impending and the Renters' Rights Bill) mean that trends are not as clear cut as they might have been in the past.
For example, it's notable that across both sales and lettings, established areas like Richmond and Bath continue to out-perform newer spots nearby. That provides opportunities in both areas. If you're a buyer, there may be the chance to be competitive on price in some of the lower performing areas if you're looking to hold onto property for a long time. Equally, if you're a seller in either a higher demand or lower performing area, then it gives a bit more of a guideline around pricing expectations.
There's continually high demand for family homes across the board. Three and four bed properties with gardens remain top of the list, particularly if they're near good schools and green spaces. At the opposite end of the spectrum, flats with some kind of outside space, whether it's access to a communal garden, a balcony, or terrace, are also performing well.
It's no secret that affordability is tight across the entire economic spectrum as budgets remain sensitive due to rates and external pressures. However, there is still activity in the market, so it's not a question of things being stagnant - it's just much more competitive.
That's especially notable given that lots of people got used to pretty much naming their price on both rent and sales in the Covid/ post-Covid era. While that's five years ago now, it's taken time for the mentality to change in the market and align with reality.
The conclusion is that marketing and pricing sensibly is key. It's essential for property owners to have sales and lettings agents who really understand the market, are realistic, and are prepared to put in the legwork. That said, there's still every reason why good agents should be optimistic with the right strategy.
Sales momentum is selective, so this really comes back to having a sensible and proactive approach to marketing, both online, in print, on social media, and in terms of having agents who are prepared to take the time to build relationships and match the right buyer to the right property.
Properties that blend the right presentation with the right price are still attracting multiple offers and faster exchanges. Stock that misses the mark is seeing a much slower journey unless the approach is reviewed early on.
There continues to be a lettings supply squeeze, and changes in legislation and taxes are only likely to continue that trajectory, perhaps in contrast to what the government had intended. In particular that's because there was already a shortage of supply, but now a number of landlords have sold up, which has reduced the overall rental stock that's available.
That said, for those who remain in the market, good tenants are still keen, so rents are holding steady or edging up in core postcodes. My recommendation for landlords who want to maximise their investment and minimise the risks from new regulations is to make sure the property is in good condition, ensure your tenancy agreements are up to date, screen tenants for affordability, and work to build a good, transparent, long-term relationship with tenants. These are all things that a good letting agent should facilitate on your behalf.
With the rise in remote and hybrid working, there's a notable increase in demand for properties that offer a balance between living and working spaces, as well as access to local green spaces and easy transport links. That might be properties with gardens or balconies, or simply those near a nice park.
This provides opportunities for both sellers and landlords to maximise the configuration of their properties to support home working, and pay attention to outside spaces to make them inviting, usable spaces if they aren't already. Equally, if you're a landlord looking to purchase a buy-to-let, look out for properties with outdoor space, and if you're letting a furnished property consider things like modular furniture that can help tenants configure rooms to suit their needs.
If you're looking to buy, sell, rent, or let a property, Chase Buchanan's team of experts offer exceptional property services across South West London, as well as the South West of England including Bristol, Bath and Plymouth. If you would like support, advice, or to begin with a chat, contact your nearest branch for more information.
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